State seeks public comment on Faith Creek placer mining plan near Chatanika

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through May 11 on a proposed placer mining operation on Faith Creek near Chatanika. Mark and Teresa Hanson and Sue Strahler applied to amend their existing mining plan for mechanical placer mining in the Fairbanks Mining District.

The operation would run through December 31, 2034, on state lands in sections of Township 6 North and Township 5 North, Range 7 East. The amendment covers the plan of operations, reclamation approval, and potential cross-country travel on state lands outside the mining locations.

The application includes permits for miscellaneous land use, approved plan of operations, and reclamation plan approval under state regulations. Other state land use outside the mining locations, if any, will be reviewed separately by DNR.

Written comments must reach the Division of Mining, Land and Water at the Fairbanks Mine Permitting Office by 5:00 p.m. on May 11. Comments can be mailed to 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, Alaska 99709, or emailed to [email protected].

Michelle Corrigan at the Fairbanks office can answer questions at 907-451-2743. The full application packet is available for review by contacting the office. After reviewing public comments, DNR may issue an authorization with conditions for the mining activity.